Mercedes-Benz Urban eTruck and Fuso eCanter

Mercedes-Benz is pursuing the reduction in fuel consumption with the latest generation of OM 471 six-in-line 12.8 litre diesel engine and, for the next decade, is relying on pure electric trucks. Premiering at the show, the Mercedes-Benz all-electric Urban eTruck claims to match the performance of a diesel engine. It’s a different approach compared to the last few years when Daimler seemed interested in developing a hybrid driveline (diesel engine coupled with an electric motor) for medium duty distribution trucks (Atego Hybrid) instead. The 26-tonne GVW triple axle Urban eTruck is powered by a 212 kWh Lithium-ion modular battery pack developed by Mercedes-Benz Energy GmbH. A zero emission vehicle, the truck can cover up to 200 km on one charge, which is ample for a heavy-duty short radius distribution sector. The electrically powered rear axle of the Urban eTruck is coupled with electric motors placed adjacent to wheel hubs. Their maximum output is 2x125 kWh, and they generate a torque of 2x500 Nm. Operating in three different modes, ‘auto’, ‘agile’ and ‘eco’ according to the target range, and to optimise the use of energy, the eTruck features predictive powertrain control, cruise control, predictive charge management and FleetBoard telematics for extended application reach. These features also help to complete the planned haulage without deploying extra fleet. The central display shows a wide range of information to the driver. The driver is also provided with a tab to regularly update himself with detailing on the range and the battery status.

The Fuso eCanter that premiered at Hannover is equipped with water-cooled lithium ion battery pack. The pack has five units, two on each side of the frame and one centrally located in the frame right behind the cab for weight balancing. With a 70kWh capacity, the eCanter can cover a range of 100 km in one juice. The battery is fully adaptable with two charging options using a standard Combo 2 plug. Up to 80 per cent battery charge up can be achieved in less than an hour at a quick charging station and 100 per cent charge in up to seven hours on AC current. The synchronous electric motor of eCanter has an output of 185 kWh and a torque of 380 Nm. Power transfer to the rear axle of eCanter is managed by single speed transmission.